IW celebrates Founders Day

MT. PLEASANT — Friday, Feb. 17, Iowa Wesleyan University celebrated its Founders Day commemorating 181 years since its founding.

In honor of this day, Iowa Wesleyan hosted a series of events for students, faculty, and staff across campus throughout the day.

Founders Day allows the IW community to reflect on their history as the oldest co-educational institution in Iowa.

Since the Iowa Territorial Legislature granted a charter for the Mt. Pleasant Literary Institute on Feb. 17, 1842, Iowa Wesleyan has committed to fostering a student-centered community and providing an accessible and affordable education. Today, IW is a top regional college in the Midwest.

Notable alumni include Belle Bab Mansfield (1866), the first woman admitted to the bar in the United States; James Van Allen '35, discoverer of the earth’s radiation belts; Clement Isong '54, one of the most celebrated governors in Nigerian history; and Peggy Whitson ’81, the first female commander of the International Space Station.

"As the regional University for Southeast Iowa, we couldn't be more proud to acknowledge the historical significance Iowa Wesleyan has had in our community," Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing & Communications Meg Richtman said. "Today, we celebrate our rich history while recognizing the labors and love of our community's past and current members who have devoted so much to making this a special place."